Technogenic soil salinisation, vegetation, and management shape microbial abundance, diversity, and activity.

The importance of the microbiome in the functioning of degraded lands in industrialised zones is significant. However, little is known about how environmental parameters affect microbial abundance, structure, diversity, and especially specific guilds involved in the nitrogen cycle in saline soils influenced by the soda industry. To address this knowledge gap, our research focused on assessing the microbiota in relation to soil properties and plant species composition across two transects representing different types of land use: saline wasteland and arable fields. Our findings show that the microbial communities were the most affected not only by soil salinity but also by pH and the composition of plant species. Taxonomic variability was the most shaped by salinity together with management type and CaCO3 content. The impact of salinity on the soil microbiome was manifested in a reduced abundance of bacteria and fungi, a lower number of observed phylotypes, reduced modularity, and a lower abundance of the nitrifying guild. Denitrification and nitrogen fixation were less affected by salinity. The last process was correlated with calcium carbonate. CaCO3 was also associated with microbial taxonomic variability and the overall microbial activity caused by hydrolases, which could aid organic matter turnover in saline but carbonate-rich sites. Bacterial genera such as Bacillus, Peanibacillus, and Rhodomicrobium, in addition to fungal taxa such as Cadophora, Mortierella globalpina, Preussia flanaganii, and Chrysosporium pseudomerdarium, show potential as favourable candidates for possible bioremediation initiatives. These results can be applied to future land reclamation projects. FUNDING INFORMATION: This research received no specific grant from funding agencies in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors.

Physiological properties and genomic insights into the plant growth-promoting rhizobacterium Brevibacillus laterosporus K75 isolated from maize rhizosphere.

BACKGROUND: When looking for a safer alternative to pesticides that are potentially harmful to living organisms, one of the directions worth looking at are plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria. The purpose of the research was a comprehensive characterization of Brevibacillus laterosporus K75, a strain isolated from maize rhizosphere. Many studies have proved B. laterosporus to be a biocontrol agent; however, little is known about B. laterosporus as a plant growth-promoting rhizobacterium. RESULTS: Ninety strains were screened for plant growth-promoting activities. Four strains with the best plant growth-promoting traits (Rhodococcus qingshengii K8, Bacillus subtilis subsp. stercoris K73, Brevibacillus laterosporus K75, and Brevibacillus laterosporus K89) were used to research their effect on maize growth. Under sterile conditions, B. laterosporus K75 showed the best stimulatory effect, significantly improving the weight of roots, shoots and leaves, and considerably increasing content of chlorophyll. In unsterilized soil, B. laterosporus K75 significantly improved length of roots and weight of leaves compared to the K73, K89, and untreated control. Moreover, B. laterosporus K75 significantly increased specific leaf area compared to the untreated control and to other inoculant treatments. The genome of B. laterosporus K75 was compared to the recently published B. laterosporus MG64. Genome-mining displayed differences in identified plant growth-promoting genes and biosynthetic gene clusters of secondary metabolites. The B. laterosporus K75 genome possessed additional genes involved in indole-3-acetic acid production and phosphate solubilization that could be attributed to its ability to enhance maize growth. CONCLUSION: Our study demonstrated that B. laterosporus K75 is a promising candidate for use in inoculant formulation, effectively facilitating maize growth. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.

Consortium of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria enhances oilseed rape (Brassica napus L.) growth under normal and saline conditions.

A preparation development, which stimulates plant growth under normal and saline conditions, and protects against fungal infections, would increase crop yields and reduce damage in agriculture. This study was conducted using bacterial isolates from rape rhizosphere as a plant growth promoter and an alternative to chemical fertilizers. Three from fifty bacterial isolates: B14 (Pseudomonas sp.), B16 (Sphingobacterium sp.), and B19 (Microbacterium sp.) showed the best in vitro plant growth-promoting (PGP) characteristics. B14 strain had the best antifungal activity against phytopathogens inhibiting growth of B. cinerea, C. acutatum, and P. lingam. Moreover, B14, B16 and B19 isolates coded for several genes involved in PGP activities, aimed at improving nutrient availability, resistance to abiotic stress, and fungal pathogen suppression. Microbial consortium (B14, B16, and B19) had the best effect on rape growth, significantly increasing number of live leaves, compared to the untreated control and single inoculant treatments. Moreover, the consortium induced significant increase in shoots length and chlorophyll content in comparison to Pseudomonas sp. B14 and Microbacterium sp. B19. The consortium also induced plants tolerance to salt stress. The genomic information as well as the observed traits, and beneficial attributes towards rape, make the rhizobacterial consortium an ideal candidate for further development as biofertilizers.

Diversity Patterns of Macrofungi in Xerothermic Grasslands from the Nida Basin (Malopolska Upland, Southern Poland): A Case Study.

Macrofungal communities were investigated in seven plant associations of xerothermic grasslands in the Nida Basin located in the Malopolska Upland of southern Poland. Designation of associations at selected study sites was based on phytosociological relevés using the Braun-Blanquet method. During the years 2010-2013, we studied the diversity and distribution of macrofungi in dry grasslands, where 164 species of basidio- and ascomycetes were recovered. We determined the properties of the studied fungal communities and habitat preferences of individual species found in the analyzed xerothermic plant associations using ecological indicators for macrofungi according to Ellenberg indicator values. Diversity patterns of fungal communities in xerothermic grasslands are strongly influenced by various environmental factors. In our study, we focused on recording the fruiting bodies of all macrofungi and the proportion of each species in the study communities, as well as possible identification of the most likely indicator species for particular habitats. We found significant differences for two of the seven associations analyzed, namely Thalictro-Salvietum pratensis and Inuletum ensifoliae. However, based on Ellenberg indicator values for fungi, it is not possible to clearly define fungi as indicator species.

Dietary Intake of Polyphenols or Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids and Its Relationship with Metabolic and Inflammatory State in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.

BACKGROUND: The aim of the study was to evaluate the relationship between polyphenol or polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) consumption and the selected metabolic and inflammatory markers in type 2 diabetes (T2DM) patients. METHODS: The study enrolled 129 diabetics (49 men, mean age 64.1 ± 9.8 years) with different amounts of polyphenol and PUFAs consumption. RESULTS: A significant effect of polyphenol or PUFAs omega-3 consumption on fasting glucose concentration (FG) or glycated haemoglobin fraction (HbA1c) was reported. A negative association was observed between FG and total polyphenol, flavonoid, flavan-3-ol and stilbene intake. In the group with high flavonoid intake, the FG was significantly lower compared to the group characterised by low flavonoid intake. Polyphenols, except stilbenes, did not modulate HbA1c. Additionally, higher consumption of PUFAs omega-3 significantly decreased HbA1c, and the intake of eicosapentaenoic (EPA) and docosahexaenoic (DHA) acids negatively and significantly correlated with FG and HbA1c. Further analysis confirmed a significant association between EPA + DHA intake and HbA1c, with significant interactions with age and gender or with body mass index and waist-to-hip ratio. The dietary intake of polyphenols or PUFAs was independent of familial diabetes or diabetic diet application. CONCLUSIONS: Our study indicates a positive effect of high consumption of flavonoids, omega-3 PUFAs and stilbenes on the markers of carbohydrate metabolism balance and the absence of such an effect on other cardiometabolic markers and inflammatory conditions.

Effects of Open and Forest Habitats on Distribution and Diversity of Bumblebees (Bombus) in the Malopolska Upland (Southern Poland): Case Study.

Bumblebees are an important insect group occurring in different land ecosystems, but the number of these species has declined dramatically across Poland as well as in Europe in recent years. The fragmentation of bumblebee habitats influences the abundance and richness in community composition and trophic and competitive interactions. During the years 2003-2006 and 2017-2020, we studied the diversity and distribution of bumblebee species in two natural (boron-mixed Vaccinio-Piceetea and riparian forest Querco-Fagetea) and two semi-natural (segetal-ruderal Stellarietea mediae ruderal Artemisietea vulgaris) habitats in southern Poland. For that, we evaluated how habitats as well as local flowering communities influenced bumblebees' abundance, richness, and community composition in 16 sites (which are located in four parks). Bumblebee communities responded to environmental factors in different ways according to the type of habitat. Vegetation factors were the most important drivers of bumblebee community structures. Forests showed the lowest bumblebee abundance, richness, and diversity, and the highest dominance levels of these parameters were found in the open ruderal-segetal habitats. The meadows from the Molinio arrhenatheretea class were characterized by bumblebee communities with a more complex structure. Species diversity was positively correlated with open ruderal-segetal habitats, and negatively with mixed forest cover, while abundance was positively correlated with forest cover. Studies like this are necessary to anticipate the impact of habitat fragmentation on bumblebee decline.

Risk Factors of Early Adolescence in the Criminal Career of Polish Offenders in the Light of Life Course Theory.

Life course theory (LCT) diagnoses childhood and adolescent factors that determine an individual's involvement in crime in the future. Farrington lists eight key correlates identified by empirical analyses of criminal careers. In this paper, we seek to discuss the inconsistencies with LCT that we observed in our three empirical studies of the criminal careers of Polish offenders. During 12 years of qualitative research, we conducted direct observations and in-depth interviews in juvenile correction institutions (21) and prisons (8) across the country. We gained access to incarcerated (102) and released (30) juvenile offenders, as well as to incarcerated (68) and released (28) adult offenders. We also conducted in-depth interviews (92) with experts working with young and adult offenders. We similarly accessed some offenders' criminal records and psychological opinions. Our study revealed the strong presence of family and neighborhood influences on early criminality. Contrary to LCT assumptions, state-dependent institutions (military, work, family) were not strong enough determinants of delinquency. Polish offenders generally experience criminal onset later than LCT-oriented criminologists indicate. Based on our data, we also agree with the thesis that the onset of crime should be discussed as different age-related periods rather than just a general onset.

Age-Graded Transitions and Turning Points in Polish Offenders' Criminal Careers from the Standpoint of Life Course Theory.

Both juvenile and adult criminal careers show regularities in the origins of delinquency, the dynamics of the criminal pathway, and the turning points that lead to desistance/persistence in crime. Research shows that family, education, and friendship environments contribute significantly to the individual choices that create criminal biographies. Our aim was to apply core aspects of life course theory (LCT): trajectory, the aged-graded process, transitions, institutions, and ultimately how desistance/persistence factor into explaining the criminal careers of Polish offenders. The research is based on in-depth interviews (130) carried out with both offenders (90) and experts (40). The offenders were divided into two groups: 30 were juveniles, and 60 were adults of whom half were sentenced for the first time (30) and half were recidivists (30) located in correctional institutions or released. The experts group (40) includes psychologists, educators, social rehabilitators, and prison and juvenile detention personnel working with offenders. We used triangulation of researcher, data, and methodology. Our data revealed that similar biographical experiences characterized by an early socialization, family and friends-based circles laid the groundwork for their entry and continued participation in criminal activity. Juvenile and adult first-time sentenced offenders led criminal careers significantly different from those of recidivists, who faced problems with social adaptation caused by lack of family and institutional support.

Influence of Algae Supplementation on the Concentration of Glutathione and the Activity of Glutathione Enzymes in the Mice Liver and Kidney.

Algae are potential and natural source of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids like eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). The diatom Pinnularia borealis accumulates high levels of EPA and may be considered as a source for commercial production of dietary supplements. In this study we asked the question whether diet supplementation with P. borealis may augment antioxidant defense and ameliorate risk factors for cardiovascular diseases. We fed mice (Mus musculus) with lyophilized diatom solutions of different concentrations (1%, 3%, and 5%) for 7 days. Then we measured glutathione content and the activity of glutathione redox system enzymes, total cholesterol and triacylglycerol concentrations, and malondialdehyde concentration in the liver and kidney. We found that cholesterol and triacylglycerol concentrations in the liver and kidneys were the lowest in mice who were fed with the highest concentration of Pinnularia borealis, suggesting protective properties of algae. Additionally, the lowest concentration of Pinnularia borealis was sufficient to improve antioxidant capacity. Our results suggest that P. borealis may be used as a source for dietary supplements rich in EPA, but the amount supplied to the organism should be limited.

Mental and Physical Health Problems as Conditions of Ex-Prisoner Re-Entry.

The article focuses on a less-discussed issue of social marginalization of people leaving penitentiaries, which is the prevalence of multifaceted health problems experienced by people in this category. It includes poor health status, resulting from, among others, poor housing conditions, harmful or risky lifestyle, and lack of access to medical services. Data from the District Inspectorate of the Prison Service in Lodz, Poland on the health conditions of inmates was accessed. These data were supplemented by qualitative research conducted in 21 juvenile detention centers and 8 prisons across the country, conducting direct observations and In-Depth Interviews (IDI). A total of 198 IDIs were conducted with incarcerated (72) and released (30) juvenile offenders, and incarcerated (68) and released (28) adult offenders. These were complemented by IDIs with experts (50) and Focus Group Interviews (FGIs; 8) with male and female inmates in 4 Polish prisons. The study revealed that mental and physical health is a serious obstacle to social reintegration of ex-prisoners. It is rarely addressed by state institutions. There are strong associations between neglect of health issues in the prison population and increasing social exclusion after leaving prison. As Poland has a restrictive penal policy, former prisoners remain a group with social stigma and little support.

Nanospheres encapsulated everolimus delivery into arterial wall-the tissue pharmacokinetics and vascular response experimental study.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the pharmacokinetic profile and tissue effects of everolimus delivered into arterial wall using biodegradable nanospheres. BACKGROUND: Delivery of everolimus into the arterial wall is challenging due to its low-lipophilic profile. METHODS: A pharmacokinetic study included 28 porcine coronary arterial segments initially injured with balloon angioplasty followed by the local delivery of everolimus encapsulated in nanospheres (EEN) via injection through a microporous delivery catheter. The animals were sacrificed at 1 hour, 1,7,28, and 90-day follow-up. In the tissue effects study 16 coronary bare metal stent (BMS) were implanted following EEN delivery, 15 BMS following nanospheres delivery without the drug (reference group) and 16 implanted BMS served as a control. Angiographic and histology follow-up was scheduled at 28 and 90-day. RESULTS: The study showed high-everolimus concentrations in arterial tissue early after nanoparticles delivery followed by its gradual decrease to 1.15 ± 0.40 ng/mg at 90 days. Histology analysis showed favorable biocompatibility and healing profile with comparable area stenosis between groups at both time-points. CONCLUSIONS: The present study demonstrates for the first time the safety, biocompatibility, and long-term retention of everolimus in arterial tissue after single local delivery of biodegradable nanospheres.

X-ray Fluorescence Techniques in Determining the Habitat Preferences of Species-Ulva pilifera (Ulvales, Chlorophyta) from Montenegro Case Study.

The paper presents four new sites where bright green Ulva thalli were found inhabiting freshwater (a river, a ditch, the Milet Canal) and marine (on the rocky shore of the Adriatic Sea) habitats in Montenegro. The aims of this study were to determine, for the first time, whether specimens of Ulva pilifera collected in Montenegro are phylogenetically and morphologically the same species as the one occurring in Europe. Using total reflection X-ray fluorescence (TXRF) and wavelength dispersive X-ray fluorescence (WDXRF) techniques it assessed the elemental composition of their thalli and its influence to colonise new habitats. Elements: Al, As, Ba, Br, Ca, Cl, Cr, Cu, Fe, Hf, I, K, Mg, Mn, Na, Ni, P, Pb, Rb, S, Si, Sr, Ti, V, and Zn were determined. The highest elemental concentrations were found for Ca = 16.3% (using WDXRF) and for Sr = 292 ppm (using TXRF) in the Ulva thalli. Ulva pilifera analysed from Montenegro, based on classical morphological methods and molecular techniques, are closely related to the same species from inland and coastal waters throughout Europe. The analysis of trace elements showed that the metal content in Ulva thalli is correlated with the trace elements in water and sediments. Ulva pilifera fits numerous features that make it one of the bioindicators of marine pollution, thanks to its worldwide distribution and capacity to accumulate trace elements.

E-cigarette use among young adults in Poland: Prevalence and characteristics of e-cigarette users.

PURPOSE: Electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) use is one of the most popular alternatives to conventional cigarette smoking. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of cigarette and e-cigarette use among university students from Poland, with particular emphasis on ever and current cigarette and e-cigarette use as well as smoking initiation age. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was conducted between 2017 and 2018 in a group of university students in 5 academic centers in Poland. The questionnaire addressed 46 questions about personal attitudes toward cigarette smoking and e-cigarette use. RESULTS: Data were collected from 7324 participants (67.3% females, aged 21.9 ± 2.1 years), with an overall response rate of 70.1%. Among participants, 71.2% had ever smoked a cigarette, and almost half of the respondents (45%) declared ever use of an e-cigarette. The mean age of first use of a cigarette was significantly lower (16.5 ± 2.5 y-old) than of an e-cigarette (18.6 ± 2.2 y-old; p < 0.001). Exclusive cigarette smoking was declared by 12.9%, 1.3% were e-cigarette users and 1.5% were dual users. Those in the medical field were less likely to try e-cigarettes (odds ratio, OR = 0.73) or to currently smoke conventional cigarettes (OR = 0.82). Older participants were more likely to have ever smoked conventional cigarettes (OR = 1.06), but less likely to have ever used e-cigarettes (OR = 0.88). CONCLUSIONS: In this study, we found a high proportion of young adults who have tried e-cigarettes with both regional and demographic differences. The education profile influences cigarette smoking and e-cigarette use behaviors.

Respiratory Complications in Children Hospitalized with Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection.

The goal of this study was to define the prevalence of respiratory complications, other than bronchiolitis, such as pneumonia, acute otitis media, and conjunctivitis in children treated in a hospital due to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection, with reference to the plausible risk factors. The study included 111 children, aged up to 22 months (median 3 months). Complications were observed in 68 (61%) children, with 32 (29%) children presenting more than one. The most frequent complication was acute otitis media in 53 (48%), pneumonia in 37 (33%), and conjunctivitis in 12 (11%) out of the 111 children. Children with complications were older than those without complications and had fever that lasted for a significantly longer time, both before and during hospitalization, and the fever was stronger. They also presented a significantly lower breathing rate at admission. The age over 3 months was a single risk factor associated with the development of otitis media (OR = 9.8, 95%CI: 3.6-26.7) and pneumonia (OR = 2.8, 95%CI: 1.1-7.3). Other factors such as prematurity, birth weight below 2500 g, exposure to tobacco smoke during pregnancy, and the cessation of breastfeeding below age 6 months were statistically irrelevant to this end. We conclude that complications are very frequent in hospitalized children with RSV infection and their risk increases with the infant age.

Fluctuations in circulating endothelial progenitor cell levels and acute cardiac graft rejection.

INTRODUCTION: Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) in nontransplant settings have reparative properties. However, their role in heart transplantation (HT) is not well defined. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to prospectively evaluate changes in EPC levels in relation to post­HT rejection. PATIENTS AND METHODS: EPC levels were measured in 27 HT recipients for 6 months after HT. Acute cellular rejection (ACR) or antibody­mediated rejection (AMR) were assessed by right ventricular endomyocardial biopsy. RESULTS: ACR and AMR were observed in 7 (25.9%) and 6 (22.2%) patients, respectively. The ACR status at 1 month post­HT did not differ with respect to EPC immediately post­HT. At 1 month post­HT in patients without ACR or AMR, EPC levels were significantly reduced compared with the measurements immediately post­HT (P <0.001). On further follow­up, EPC levels were similar regardless of the rejection events. Nonetheless, greater changes (coefficient of variation) in EPClog (logarithmic transformation) were associated with the risk of AMR or ACR compared with those without any rejection event (median [lower-upper quartile], 15 [13-18] vs 8 [5-13]; P = 0.02 and 22 [14-26] vs 8 [5-13]; P = 0.01, respectively). The receiver operating characteristic curve showed that the coefficient of variation of EPClog of 12 was the optimal cutoff value for the prediction of rejection (area under the curve = 0.85). Higher levels were associated with greater risk of ACR or AMR (P <0.005). CONCLUSIONS: Early reduction of EPC levels was related to a lower risk of ACR or AMR. Greater changes of EPC­levels during follow­up were associated with a significantly higher risk of rejection.

Inositols' Importance in the Improvement of the Endocrine-Metabolic Profile in PCOS.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common causes of infertility and metabolic problems among women of reproductive age. The mechanism of PCOS is associated with concurrent alterations at the hormonal level. The diagnosis assumes the occurrence of three interrelated symptoms of varying severity, namely ovulation disorders, androgen excess, or polycystic ovarian morphology (PCOM), which all require a proper therapeutic approach. The main symptom seems to be an increased androgen concentration, which in turn may contribute to different metabolic disorders. A number of papers have demonstrated the significant role of inositol therapy in PCOS. However, there is a lack of detailed discussion about the importance of myo-inositol (MI) and d-chiro-inositol (DCI) in reference to particular symptoms. Thus, the aim of this review is to present the effectiveness of MI and DCI treatment for PCOS symptoms. Moreover, the review is focused on analyzing the use of inositols, taking into account their physiological properties, together with the mechanism of individual PCOS symptom formation.

microRNA expression profile in Smooth Muscle Cells isolated from thoracic aortic aneurysm samples.

PURPOSE: Thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA) is a cardiovascular disease characterized by increased aortic diameter, treated with surgery and endovascular therapy in order to avoid aortic dissection or rupture. The mechanism of TAA formation has not been thoroughly studied and many factors have been proposed to drive its progression; however strong focus is attributed to modification of smooth muscle cells (SMCs). Latest research indicates, that microRNAs (miRNAs) may play a significant role in TAA development - these are multifunctional molecules consisting of 19-24 nucleotides involved in regulation of the gene expression level related to many biological processes, i.e. cardiovascular disease pathophysiology, immunity or inflammation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Primary SMCs were isolated from aortic scraps of TAA patients and age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Purity of isolated SMCs was determined by flow cytometry using specific markers: α-SMA, CALP, MHC and VIM. Real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was conducted for miRNA analysis. RESULTS: We established an isolation protocol and investigated the miRNA expression level in SMCs isolated from aneurysmal and non-aneurysmal aortic samples. We identified that let-7 g (0.71-fold, p = 0.01), miR-130a (0.40-fold, p = 0.04), and miR-221 (0.49-fold, p = 0.05) significantly differed between TAA patients and healthy controls. CONCLUSIONS: Further studies are required to improve our understanding of the pathophysiology underlying TAA, which may aid the development of novel, targeted therapies. The pivotal role of miRNAs in the cardiovascular system provides a new perspective on the pathophysiology of thoracic aortic aneurysms.

Serum levels and gene expression of pentraxin 3 are elevated in COPD.

PURPOSE: Pentraxin 3 (PTX-3) is an acute phase protein that belongs to the pentraxin superfamily. It is synthesized locally at the site of inflammation and its levels are related to the damage of blood vessels. There are only a few studies examining the relationship between PTX-3 and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The aim of this study was to evaluate the serum levels of PTX-3 and relative PTX-3 gene expression in COPD patients and their correlations with cigarette smoking history and lung function. MATERIALS/METHODS: A total number of 34 participants were enrolled into this study. Only stable patients without comorbidities were recruited. After obtaining written informed consent all planned procedures were performed (pre- and post-bronchodilator spirometry, blood samples for PTX-3 serum levels and PTX-3 gene expression measurements, demographical data, medical history, COPD patients were also asked for CAT and MMRC questionnaires). RESULTS: PTX-3 serum levels were significantly higher in the COPD group (29.22 (5.47) ng/ml vs. 14.64 (3.64) ng/ml). PTX-3 gene relative quantification (RQ) values were also significantly higher in the COPD group (0.15 (1.33) vs. -2.80 (1.99)). No differences in CRP serum levels were found between the control group and the COPD group. CONCLUSIONS: Our study demonstrates that serum levels of PTX-3 and the relative expression values of its gene are elevated in COPD, and can be related to cigarette smoking history.

Evaluation of the influence of in vivo exposure to extremely low-frequency magnetic fields on the plasma levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in rats.

PURPOSE: Epidemiological data suggest that there is a link between exposure to extremely low-frequency magnetic fields (ELF-MFs), immune response, and the occurrence of neurodegenerative diseases. The exact nature of this phenomenon remains speculative and requires detailed laboratory investigation. In the present study, we evaluate changes in plasma concentration of pro-inflammatory and regulatory cytokines as well as alternations of the hematological parameters in rats exposed to an ELF-MF. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Male Wistar rats were repeatedly exposed for either 1 h/day for 7 days, or continuously for 24 h, to a sinusoidal ELF-MF (50 Hz, 7 mT). Control groups were sham exposed for either 1 h/day for 7 days, or continuously for 24 h, respectively. The levels of cytokines: interleukin (IL)-1ß, IL-2, IL-6, and IL-10 in plasma obtained from blood samples were determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The changes in blood parameters were determined using an automatic hematology analyzer in whole blood samples immediately after collection. RESULTS: We found that a single continuous (lasting 24 h) exposure provoked a significant increase of the plasma IL-1ß, IL-6, and IL-2 levels, and caused an elevation in blood parameters, such as white blood cells, lymphocytes, hemoglobin, and hematocrit levels. In contrast, however, repetitive exposure of rats to an ELF-MF for 1 h/day for 7 days did not lead to any changes in plasma levels of cytokines and hematological counts. CONCLUSIONS: Based on these data we conclude that exposure duration (dose-response) plays a significant role in the immune response, specifically at the cellular level. While single 24 h-lasting exposure provoked changes that indicate an immune alarm stimulation, under the conditions which are typical for therapeutic use of ELF-MFs (repeated short daily exposure) the immune potentially harmful response has not been observed.

Concentration of 8-isoprostanes in the exhaled breath condensate as a marker of oxidative stress in patients with type 1 diabetes.

INTRODUCTION: Type 1 diabetes is an insulin deficiency-based chronic disease. It leads to the development of hyperglycaemia, which plays a key role in the initiation and progression of tissue damage in patients with diabetes. This mostly results from oxidative stress, whose increased severity is observed in this group of patients. Increased levels of 8-isoprostanes are seen in many inflammatory diseases, including asthma, COPD and cystic fibrosis. These diseases demonstrated the usefulness of the exhaled breath condensate (EBC) for extracting material for markers of oxidative stress, including 8-isoprostanes. The purpose of this study was to assess the severity of oxidative stress measured with 8-isoprostane concentrations in the exhaled breath condensate in healthy subjects and in patients with type 1 diabetes with and without vascular complications. MATERIAL AND METHODS: 33 patients assigned to the control group, type 1 diabetes without complications group and type 1 diabetes group with advanced complications were included in the study. Retinopathy, nephropathy or neuropathy have been reported as a criterion distinguishing between complicated and uncomplicated diabetes. EBC was obtained for each subject. 8-isoprostane concentrations were determined in serum and EBC by ELISA. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: Mean (± SD) blood levels of 8-isoprostane in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus without complications and those with type 1 diabetes with advanced complications were significantly higher compared to the control group (178.17 [135.73] vs. 183.34 [200.41] vs. 47.13 [25.20] pg/ml; p < 0.05). The mean (± SD) concentration of 8-isoprostane in EBC was lower in diabetic patients with type 1 diabetes with advanced complications than in patients with type 1 diabetes without advanced complications and in the control group (8.32 [4.60] vs. 19.13 [22.35] vs. 28.17 [35.11] pg/ml; p < 0.05). Measurement of 8-isoprostanes in the EBC in patients with type 1 diabetes does not appear to be a good diagnostic tool for monitoring the activity of oxidative stress in these patients.